Joan Yonke, 1952–2024

Joan Yonke, 72, of St. Petersburg, Florida, passed away peacefully at her home on the evening of Monday, December 30, 2024.

Born in Oxford, North Carolina, in 1952 to Robert “Bob” and Dorothy Thompson Reece, Joan moved to Tampa, Florida, where she attended A.P. Leto High School. She began her career as an Administrative Assistant at Rollins Security but found her true calling as a florist at Jenny's Flower Shop in Tampa. Joan’s creative talents flourished, and she became a top designer, eventually serving as Plant Manager. Her exquisite arrangements, intricate bouquets, and imaginative window displays brought joy to countless customers over her 15-year tenure.

In the early 2000s, Joan embraced a new career path, becoming Call Center Manager at AAA in St. Petersburg, where she worked until her retirement in 2014.

Joan was a woman of many passions. A gifted gardener, she cultivated beautiful spaces throughout her life, with orchids being her most cherished plants. She was also a skilled pool player, competing in leagues and tournaments where she proved herself a formidable opponent. In later years, Joan dedicated her time to the American Legion, serving as Secretary and Historian of Post 14 in St. Petersburg, where her vibrant personality and sense of humor left a lasting impression.

Known for her infectious laughter and knack for brightening any room, Joan delighted those around her with witty, impromptu song parodies tailored to the moment. She was the life of every gathering, bringing joy to friends and family alike.

Joan was preceded in death by her parents, Bob and Dorothy Reece, and her late husband of 15 years, Roy Thomas Yonke. She is survived by her loving husband, Paul Russell Yonke; her sisters, Patsy (Charlie) Ugarte and Kathryn (Peter) Armatas; and her beloved daughter, Allison (David) Johns.

Joan’s warmth, humor, and love will forever be remembered by those who knew her.

American Legion Post 14

1520 4th St N, Saint Petersburg, FL 33704

(727) 894-7320 Monday, January 20, 2025, from 4:00 p.m. - 9:00 p.m. (friends and family), and the Family Prayer and Private Celebration Sunday, February 16th, 2025, from 12-2 pm at the home of David and Allison Johns. Donations to American Legion Post 14 would be greatly appreciated.